Today's session at the preparation group went through the types of backgrounds that adopted children may come from.  

It was hard work, some of the stories we heard were harrowing and upsetting on a different level than I have felt before.

We got through it though, we supported each other and the group provided support too.

This experience has highlighted to me how important the support of others is.

I'm really proud that our Team Achieve members really look out for each other, they've got each others backs.  Particularly when difficult times need facing around food or exercise.  I struggle with food issues but have never dieted in the media sense of the word.  Therefore, the experiences of our other members are more helpful to our new members when they are struggling.

They can explain things on a wave length that I can't.

The support our members provide for each other makes me really proud that we have created an environment that is conducive to such openness and giving.

Darren 'having a bath' Checkley

P.S.  Thank you so much for all of the advice, support and encouragement in response to my last message.  It means so much that you take the time to not only read our emails but respond and care about us too.

P.P.S.  Movember Man Challenge is for Men only today, have a warm bath or shower and check your nuts out.  You're just having a general feel for something unusual, lumps and bumps.  This Movember thing is about male health issues particularly prostate and testicular cancer.

Actually, it's Friday night.  If you have a partner get them involved ;)

P.P.P.S. You can apply to join Team Achieve here - http://achievebootcamp.com/application/  
Hurry though, we start on Monday.